Acanthosis Nigricans Treatment in NYC
Acanthosis nigricans is a common skin condition that causes dark, thick, velvety patches to develop—most often on the neck, underarms, inner thighs, knuckles, or other body folds. While it is often a cosmetic concern to patients it shouldn’t be ignored. It is usually benign, however, it can be a sign of underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, PCOS and cancer.
At Aglow Dermatology, we can confirm your diagnosis evaluate both the cause as well as offer effective treatments
What Is Acanthosis Nigricans?
Acanthosis nigricans is characterized by areas of skin that appear darker, thicker, and sometimes slightly raised. The affected skin may feel velvety. Some people mistake it for dirty neck skin or even tinea versicolor (a yeast infection that causes blotchy discoloration), but unlike these, acanthosis nigricans doesn’t flake or rub off.
Who Gets Acanthosis Nigricans?
Acanthosis nigricans can occur in men, women, and children. It is more often seen in:
- People with obesity — the most common associated factor
- Individuals with a family history of the condition (genetic forms exist)
- Certain ethnic groups, including African Americans, Native Americans, and Hispanic/Latino populations*
*This higher prevalence is not due to skin color itself, but rather to the fact that obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes — the leading risk factors for acanthosis nigricans — are more common in these populations.
It can appear at any age, but often starts:
- In childhood or adolescence in genetic or obesity-related cases
- In adulthood if caused by obesity, hormonal disorders, medications, or rarely, certain cancer
Acanthosis Nigricans Causes
This condition can be linked to:
- Insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes
- Obesity (most common cause)
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Thyroid disease
- Hormonal disorders
- Certain medications (including high-dose niacin, corticosteroids, birth control pills)
- Cancer (rare — especially sudden, widespread onset in older adults)
Because of its link to insulin resistance, acanthosis nigricans can be seen in people who are taking metformin, Ozempic, or other weight-loss/diabetes medications — sometimes improving with these treatments.
Is Acanthosis Nigricans a Sign of Cancer?
Most cases are benign and related to metabolic or hormonal changes — not cancer.
A rare type called malignant acanthosis nigricans can be associated with internal cancers, most often stomach cancer. Warning signs for the malignant form include:
- Sudden onset
- Rapid spread
- Occurring in older adults without typical metabolic risk factors
- Involvement of unusual areas (lips, mouth, palms)
- Accompanying skin signs such as sudden multiple seborrheic keratoses or tripe palms
This is uncommon, but it’s important not to ignore sudden, severe changes. At Aglow Dermatology, we always consider your overall health picture when diagnosing and treating skin changes.
Do Children Get Acanthosis Nigricans?
Yes. Children can develop this condition — often in connection with obesity, type 2 diabetes risk, or genetic predisposition. In children, the presence of this skin change can be an early sign to screen for metabolic syndrome.
Acanthosis Nigricans Treatments
At Aglow Dermatology, we create a treatment plan that addresses both the cause and the appearance of acanthosis nigricans.
Treating the Underlying Cause
- Blood sugar control for insulin resistance or diabetes
- Weight loss through diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes
- Treating PCOS, thyroid disease, or other hormonal disorders
- Adjusting medications when appropriate
- age-appropriate cancer screening
When to See a Dermatologist
See a dermatologist promptly if:
- The condition appears suddenly and spreads quickly (especially in older adults)
- It is associated with unexplained weight loss or other systemic symptoms
- You are unsure of what is on your skin
- You want help with acanthosis nigricans treatment
Book an Appointment
If you have a skin, hair or nail concern–and want a diagnosis and treatment, we can help.
Call Aglow Dermatology at (212) 627-1004 or book your appointment online »